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Treatment For Panic and Anxiety Attacks

Treatment for panic and anxiety attacks involves psychotherapy, medications and lifestyle adjustments. Doctors can assist patients in managing their symptoms by determining the root of the attack.

They can also prescribe beta-blockers such as propranolol or diazepam to slow the speed of a pulse. Psychotherapy is the process of talking to an therapist to discover how to manage anxiety.





Psychotherapy

A psychiatrist or psychologist may diagnose anxiety and provide counseling (psychotherapy). People who suffer from frequent panic attacks consult their primary care doctor who will look for an underlying medical condition. Based on the root of the panic, the PCP may refer the person to a mental health specialist. The therapist may recommend cognitive behavioral therapy in order to lessen anxiety.

Cognitive behavioral therapy assists a person identify the behaviors and thinking patterns that can trigger an episode of panic. Catastrophizing is one of them, or believing that the worst is going to occur. This type of thinking is believed to be a result of chemical imbalances in the amygdala as well as brain circuits involved in the processing of fear and anxiety. The therapist can help the client challenge these thoughts to reduce the risk of an attack.

Another technique is to learn how to manage the physical manifestations of a panic attack. These include sweating and a pulse that is pounding. The therapist can guide the client to control their breathing, a technique called mindfulness meditation that promotes relaxation. Additionally the therapist is able to guide the client how to create an effective sleeping routine and strategies to reduce stress.

Some therapists also use exposure therapy to help someone overcome the avoidance behaviors that fuel anxiety. For instance, a person who suffers from agoraphobia may be urged to face the feared situation like crowds or public transportation -each step at a time until they feel more comfortable in those settings.

The use of medications such as anti-anxiety and anti-panic medications, or benzodiazepines, can be useful in reducing the intensity of panic attacks. They aren't effective in treating the underlying causes. In fact, long-term usage of these drugs can cause dependence and addiction which makes it harder to break the cycle of fear. Many therapists don't prescribe medications as part of treatment for panic disorder.

Some providers offer sliding scale rates for those with lower incomes, or free services. If you have insurance you can contact your insurance provider to find out what coverage they provide. Some therapists provide online sessions, which could be beneficial for those who can't afford to attend in person.

Medicines

Doctors often prescribe medication to treat panic attacks in addition to therapy. Some antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs have been proven to be effective in reducing the intensity, frequency and duration of symptoms. These medications work by stabilizing the levels of chemical messengers referred to as neurotransmitters in the brain. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most frequently prescribed medications for panic attacks. They increase the levels of serotonin in the brain, which is a chemical that can affect mood. SSRIs are sertraline (Zoloft), Lexapro (escitalopram) and paroxetine(Paxil). Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, another type of antidepressant, can also decrease anxiety symptoms by increasing the amount of norepinephrine in your brain. These are a class of antidepressants that includes venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta).

Beta blockers, which are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure or heart problems, can also reduce anxiety symptoms, such as a rapid heart rate sweating, trembling voice, and shaking hands. Doctors don't usually prescribe these medications for panic disorder, but they might be prescribed in the event that a stressful situation triggers a panic attack.

Benzodiazepines are fast-acting anti-anxiety medications that can relieve anxiety symptoms immediately. However, they can also be addictive and cause withdrawal if you stop taking them suddenly. They may also be harmful when you mix them with alcohol or other depressants. They are usually only recommended for short-term usage by health care professionals.

Your doctor will ask you questions regarding your mental health, family history, and lifestyle in the event that you have recurring attacks. They will determine whether your attacks are caused by a medical condition, like thyroid issues, and will be looking for other contributing factors, such as adverse childhood memories or other stressors, which can contribute to the symptoms.

The most important thing to remember when dealing with panic attacks is to understand that they aren't harmful. You should also learn how to manage these symptoms. If you are surrounded by the support of your loved ones they can help by practicing relaxation techniques and avoiding caffeine and other stimulants that could cause them to happen.

Lifestyle changes

It is essential to seek professional help when you are suffering from extreme anxiety or panic attacks. Often, treating anxiety disorders and medications are effective treatments for anxiety disorders.

Talk therapy is a different term for psychotherapy. It covers a wide range of treatment options for psychological disorders. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a popular kind of treatment that helps you to recognize and change negative thoughts and emotions that trigger panic attacks. You can lessen or eliminate anxiety by changing your reactions and behavior.

Anti-anxiety medicines can also be beneficial in managing anxiety and pandemonium. These medicines, also known as tranquilizers or tranquilizers have a sedating and slowing effect on the nervous system. This can help you feel calmer. The most frequently prescribed anti-anxiety medication is the benzodiazepines like alprazolam (Xanax(r)) and lorazepam (Ativan(r)).

A healthy lifestyle can help in reducing anxiety symptoms. Regular exercise can help reduce anxiety, release positive hormones and improve mood. Avoiding alcohol, caffeine smoking, and drinking alcohol can increase anxiety symptoms. A good night's sleep is a crucial aspect of an active life style. Getting at minimum eight hours of rest each night can help reduce anxiety symptoms and improve cognition.

Getting involved in social activities and spending time with your family and friends can help you reduce your anxiety. Joining a support group can also be a good way to meet other people with similar concerns and learn that you are not alone.

A variety of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practices like yoga meditation and acupuncture show promising results for improving anxiety symptoms. Further clinical trials are needed to confirm these results. In the interim, you can try to moderately exercise most days of the week and consume a healthy diet that is rich in vegetables, fruits and proteins. Avoid foods that contain processed alcohol, caffeine, sugar and as they can cause anxiety. Also, avoid taking herbal supplements unless you discuss them with your physician first.

Counseling

If someone is suffering from a panic attack it is possible that they experience various symptoms, like the heart beating faster and chest tightness and shaking, hyperventilation, dizziness and chills. They might also believe they are experiencing an attack on their heart or that they are dying. The attacks usually peak in minutes and then fade away. People who have them frequently might be diagnosed with panic disorder.

Your doctor will require you to give an extensive medical history, and perform an examination to determine whether panic attacks are present. They will also ask you to identify the symptoms and when they occur. They will also look for indications of other health conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as the thyroid condition or heart disease.

The most effective treatment for panic and anxiety attacks is psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, in conjunction with a mental health professional. It is advised to seek the help of a psychologist or psychiatrist. They will be able to assist you in identifying your triggers and help you learn how to deal with them. They might also prescribe medication like antidepressants to help ease your symptoms and prevent the recurrence of symptoms.

Medications such as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) or SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors), can decrease the frequency of your panic and anxiety attacks, but they won't make them completely go away. If the medications aren't working for you, your doctor could alter your dosage or switch to a different kind.

A counselor or therapist can help you manage your emotions. You may also opt for cognitive behavioral therapy in order to address unhelpful beliefs and thoughts. This can be a challenging process, but it could provide you with the tools you require to manage your anxiety and avoid panic attacks in the future. Your friends and family can be a source of support as you learn how to manage your symptoms. In fact increasing numbers of health professionals are recommending that spouses and partners join in the treatment process to offer emotional and physical assistance. They can practice relaxation techniques together and act as an calming presence when anxiety or panic attacks begin to pop up.